Methods and solutions for killing or deactivating spores

Abstract

Exemplary methods and systems for killing or deactivating spores include applying a fluid to a surface containing a spore; and applying direct or indirect plasma to the surface for a period of time. In some embodiments, the fluid includes water. In some embodiments, the spore is Clostridium difficile and in some is Bacillus Anthracis. In some embodiments, the fluid is in the form of a mist and in some is in the form of a vapor. In some embodiments, peroxynitrite is created in the fluid during the method. Another exemplary embodiment of killing or deactivating a spore includes treating spores with direct plasma or an indirect plasma for a period of time and applying an antimicrobial to the spores. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial is an alcohol, a bleach or an alcohol-based sanitizer.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]The present invention relates generally to methods and solutions for fast killing or deactivating spores.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Spore formation is a sophisticated mechanism by which some Gram positive bacteria survive conditions of external stress and nutrient deprivation by producing a multi-layered protective capsule enclosing their dehydrated and condensed genomic DNA. When such bacterial spores encounter a favorable environment, germination can take place enabling the bacteria to reproduce, and, in the case of pathogenic species, cause disease. Bacterial spores possess a coat and membrane structure that is highly impermeable to most molecules that could be toxic to the dormant bacteria. Therefore, spores are highly resistant to damage by heat, radiation, and many of the commonly employed anti-bacterial agents, and generally can only be destroyed by some severe chemical procedures including oxidizing vapors such as hydrogen peroxide, chlorine dioxid...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes methods and systems for killing or deactivating spores, which involve applying a fluid containing a spore to a surface and then applying direct plasma or indirect plasma for a period of time. The fluid can be water, and the spore can be either Clostridium difficile or Bacillus anthracis. The process can create peroxynitrite and other oxygen and nitrogen derivatives in the fluid. Additionally, the patent suggests that treating spores with direct plasma or indirect plasma for a period of time and then applying an antimicrobial like alcohol or bleach can further enhance the effectiveness of killing or deactivating spores.

Problems solved by technology

Anthrax is a disease that is frequently fatal due to the ability of this bacterium to produce deadly toxins.

B. anthracis also forms spores Inhalation of anthrax spores is frequently fatal, particularly if treatment is not started prior to the development of symptoms.

Anthrax spores are also among the most difficult spores to kill or deactivate.

One of the reasons it is very difficult to kill or deactivate dry spores is due to their tendency to aggregate and form multilayered structures.

In addition, the dry spores adhere to surfaces and skin very strongly, making it very difficult to physically remove them.

Images